Just received my lovely Geoffrey Ellis flute!
Posted: Fri Jan 04, 2019 3:51 pm
I am so stoked right now. Not only did the helpful Jason and his co-moderators manage to straighten out my subscription so I can actually access the forum, at just about the same time, the postal carrier rang my doorbell and left a wonderful triangular package on my doorstep.
To my amazement and delight (not surprise of course, since I had actually ordered it), the package contained a gorgeous basketmaker (Anasazi style) flute made of curly Douglas Fir. I had seen Geoffrey's flutes online and listened to them being played, but to hold one in my hands was a very special experience.
This is not a picture of my actual flute, but a similar one in the key of B-flat. Mine is in A.
I've played flute and whistle for years, but never seriously. Recently, I took it in mind to get into Anasazi culture (yes, I know the term is controversial, but I have my reasons for using it, which can be discussed in another thread if you want.) I must admit, this is the hardest musical instrument I've ever tried to play. Other than maybe shakuhachi, from which I never did get a note. I'm quite proud of myself that I can actually get some notes out of this, though much practice will be required before they are clear and strong. And so far, I cannot get the lowest note on the lower octave to sound at all, while in the middle octave, it warbles a lot, and I have trouble settling on how hard to blow. I can get some notes in the upper octave. Is this intended to play three whole octaves or just the middle one and part of the upper and lower? Any information helpful and appreciated.
I do want to thank Geoffrey for making such a beautiful instrument. I felt all tingly when I was able to play three or four notes in a row. I'm looking forward to a very enjoyable relationship with this instrument. And with all of you on the Forum.
Cheers,
Michael
To my amazement and delight (not surprise of course, since I had actually ordered it), the package contained a gorgeous basketmaker (Anasazi style) flute made of curly Douglas Fir. I had seen Geoffrey's flutes online and listened to them being played, but to hold one in my hands was a very special experience.
This is not a picture of my actual flute, but a similar one in the key of B-flat. Mine is in A.
I've played flute and whistle for years, but never seriously. Recently, I took it in mind to get into Anasazi culture (yes, I know the term is controversial, but I have my reasons for using it, which can be discussed in another thread if you want.) I must admit, this is the hardest musical instrument I've ever tried to play. Other than maybe shakuhachi, from which I never did get a note. I'm quite proud of myself that I can actually get some notes out of this, though much practice will be required before they are clear and strong. And so far, I cannot get the lowest note on the lower octave to sound at all, while in the middle octave, it warbles a lot, and I have trouble settling on how hard to blow. I can get some notes in the upper octave. Is this intended to play three whole octaves or just the middle one and part of the upper and lower? Any information helpful and appreciated.
I do want to thank Geoffrey for making such a beautiful instrument. I felt all tingly when I was able to play three or four notes in a row. I'm looking forward to a very enjoyable relationship with this instrument. And with all of you on the Forum.
Cheers,
Michael